Could Humans Regrow Limbs? New Study Reveals Promising Genetic Pathway

A cross-species study in axolotls, zebrafish, and mice found shared genes involved in limb regeneration.

SP6 and SP8 emerged as key factors, and axolotl experiments showed SP8 is required for proper regrowth.

Mice lacking SP6 and SP8 had impaired digit regeneration, while a viral gene therapy boosting FGF8 partly restored growth.

The findings point to a conserved regenerative pathway and a potential future path toward restoring function after amputation.